HC Deb 25 April 1940 vol 360 c350
24. Mr. A. Jenkins

asked the Minister of Pensions whether his attention has been called to the case of Mr. Arthur Leslie Lucas, a member of the Observer Corps, at Usk, Monmouthshire, who sustained an injury while returning from a period of duty, was paid compensation for a period of three weeks while the Observer Corps was under the authority of the special constabulary, at the end of which the corps was transferred to the Air Ministry, since when no compensation has been paid; and whether he proposes to arrange for a continuance of compensation to Mr. Lucas for the period of his incapacity?

The Minister of Pensions (Sir Walter Womersley)

Under the Personal Injuries (Emergency Provisions) Act, 1939, compensation can be paid to a Civil Defence volunteer only in respect of an injury arising out of and in the course of the performance by the volunteer of his duties as such. This condition was not fulfilled in the case of Mr. Lucas. The payments made to Mr. Lucas for the period of three weeks after his injury were not authorised by my Department, but were in the nature of sick pay from the employing authority.

Mr. Jenkins

Is the Minister aware that this man sustained his injury immediately after he had left duty, while travelling over very difficult ground and before he had reached the main road? It was a very dark and very difficult journey.

Sir W. Womersley

I am aware of all the circumstances. This man had left duty.

Mr. Jenkins

In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I give notice that I intend to raise the matter at the first opportunity.